Johnnie Walker dies aged 79 (Image: GETTY)
Radio presenter Johnnie Walker has died at the age of 79, two months after calling time on his 58-year career because of ill health.
DJ Bob Harris, who took over Radio 2’s Sounds of the 70s show after Walker’s retirement, announced his former colleague’s death live on the station on Tuesday.
The news of his death comes just months after the radio broadcaster stepped down from his radio show due to his ongoing health issues.
The radio DJ had pulmonary fibrosis, which is scarring of the lungs, a condition which makes breathing difficult.
Johnnie stepped down from presenting Sounds of the 70s and The Rock Show, also on Radio 2, at the end of October.
Johnnie Walker joined BBC Radio 1 in 1969 and later joined Radio 2 in 1997 (Image: Getty)
Tributes have since poured in for the broadcasting legend.
Johnnie’s wife Tiggy Walker honoured her late husband as she addressed his lasting legacy, saying she “couldn’t be more proud” and “how he kept broadcasting almost to the end and with what dignity and grace he coped with his debilitating lung disease”.
She added, “He remained his charming, humorous self to the end, what a strong amazing man. It has been a rollercoaster ride from start to finish,” she said.
“And if I may say – what a day to go. He’ll be celebrating New Year’s Eve with a stash of great musicians in heaven. One year on from his last live show. God bless that extraordinary husband of mine who is now in a place of peace.”
Head of Radio 2, Helen Thomas, said: “Everyone at Radio 2 is heartbroken about the passing of Johnnie, a much loved broadcasting legend.
“He made Sounds of the 70s and The Rock Show appointments to listen to, sharing his personal memories and tales each week.
“He loved radio and inspired a generation of presenters, passionately promoting the artists and music he cared about so deeply.
“Johnnie’s wry sense of humour and his warm, open style of presenting ensured he was adored by his audience. The airwaves simply won’t be the same again. He will be very much missed by Radio 2 presenters, staff and listeners alike, and our thoughts are with his wife Tiggy and his children.”